Speaking to Chelsea’s website, Gilmour says that he is in Lampard’s debt after a promotion to the Stamford Bridge first-team.

“It’s a massive moment for me and I’m really happy,” Gilmour said of the switch. “‘I went with the squad to Leicester and even though I wasn’t involved, the gaffer pulled me afterwards to tell me that after the winter break I’d be with the first-team permanently.

“It’s a dream come true for me. It’s the first big step I think, moving into the first team dressing room at a club like Chelsea. It’s massive for me.

Big moment. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

“Knowing that the manager has such faith in you is massive, it gives me so much confidence when I step onto the field.”

Moving on up at Chelsea after Lampard shows faith

It’ll be a big boost for Gilmour to hear of this news. Having featured five times for the senior side, including a Carabao Cup start against Manchester United, it’s clear that Lampard rates him.

So much so that the Blues boss has taken this senior step with Scotland’s young starlet. Gilmour has made 12 Scotland U21 appearances, scoring once for Scott Gemmill’s side.

Lampard praise from the Scotsman. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Gilmour will be part of senior Chelsea football operations on a regular basis now, starting with a match against Manchester United next Monday.

It’s another step in the right direction for Gilmour’s career development.